From significant shifts in cryptocurrency markets to advancements in cloud computing, AI, and augmented reality, how major companies are driving the future of technology today.
Blockchain
1. Bitcoin down by 7.9% to $61,842
Bitcoin experienced a significant decline, dropping 7.9% to $61,842, down $5,308 from its prior close. This marks a 16.2% decrease from its year-high of $73,794 on March 14. (Reuters)
2. Bankman-Fried appeals FTX fraud conviction, 25-year sentence
Sam Bankman-Fried, founder of FTX cryptocurrency exchange, has appealed his conviction and 25-year prison sentence for defrauding customers of $8 billion. He was convicted in November on 7 counts of fraud and conspiracy, described as one of the largest financial frauds in U.S. history by federal prosecutors. (Reuters)
Internet governance
3. Consultation: RIPE NCC Charging Scheme 2025
The RIPE NCC is currently consulting its membership on the draft Charging Scheme 2025. The proposals are under consideration, each involving various price adjustments for LIR accounts and Independent Internet number resource assignments. (RIPE NCC)
IT infrastructure
4. JPMorgan Chase CEO wants more cloud to fuel AI, analytics
JPMorgan CEO Dimon expressed excitement about generative AI’s potential, emphasising its synergy with rich data to enhance risk management and customer service at Chase. (CIO Dive)
5. Amazon Web Services owes $525 mn in cloud-storage patent fight: US jury
An Illinois federal jury ordered Amazon Web Services (AWS) to pay Kove $525 million for infringing on its data-storage technology patents. AWS, disagreeing with the verdict, plans to appeal. (Business Standard)
6. IBM, Fortinet expand cloud security protection
IBM Cloud and Fortinet introduced a virtual appliance, Fortinet Virtual FortiGate Security Appliance (vFSA), on IBM Cloud. The vFSA offers advanced threat protection, AI-driven malware prevention, and network monitoring, supporting SSL and IPSec VPN connections. (Network World)
7. Microsoft starts testing ads in the Windows 11 Start menu
Microsoft has introduced ads within Windows 11’s Start menu. These ads promote Microsoft Store apps and appear in the “Recommended” section. Limited to Windows Insiders, they exclude commercially-managed devices. (Mashable)
Social
8. Apple loses bid to throw out UK lawsuit over App Store fees
Apple’s failed bid to dismiss a nearly $1 billion lawsuit in London, representing 1,500 app developers. The case alleges unfair commissions of up to 30%, reflecting broader legal challenges faced by the tech giant in the UK and worldwide. (Economic Times)
9. OpenAI’s Altman pitches ChatGPT enterprise to large firms, including some Microsoft customers
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman spearheaded presentations pitching AI services to Fortune 500 executives in San Francisco, New York, and London. The company seeks to leverage its generative AI expertise for corporate clients globally. (Reuters)
Products
10. Huawei teases launch of new smartphone, high-end model anticipated
Huawei’s forthcoming smartphone, shrouded in mystery, has sparked anticipation as the tech giant opens registrations for potential buyers. Following its successful Mate 60 series launch amid US sanctions, Huawei’s P70 speculation intensifies, likely featuring advanced Chinese-made chips. (The Straits Times)
11. Google’s Pixel 9 may get an Apple-like satellite SOS feature
Google is rumored to introduce an Emergency SOS feature akin to Apple’s on the Pixel 9 and next Pixel Fold, potentially in partnership with T-Mobile. Leaks suggest a questionnaire-based system for emergencies. (The Verge)
12. Tesla slashes price for monthly Full Self-Driving subscription
During Tesla’s two-week Full Self-Driving (FSD) trial, mixed reactions from owners prompted Elon Musk’s engagement with feedback. A post liked by Musk foretold a 50% price drop for the monthly FSD subscription, potentially altering its value proposition. (Inside EVs)
AI
13. Apple plans Mac line overhaul with AI-focused M4 chips, Bloomberg News reports
Apple is reportedly close to producing M4 computer processors with AI capabilities, set to update all Mac models. The rollout, slated for late this year and early next year, encompasses new iMacs, MacBook Pros, and Mac minis. (CGTN)
14. Galaxy AI features are coming to last-gen Samsung phones — including the S21 series
Samsung has confirmed that older devices from 2021 and 2022 will receive Galaxy AI features in “early May” with the One UI 6.1 update. Devices like the Galaxy S22 series and Tab S8 will enjoy enhanced AI capabilities, aligning with the recent S23 FE. (Yahoo!Tech)
AR/XR
15. Dyson’s viral AR Apple iPhone app shows the future of XR
Dyson unveiled a viral promotional video showcasing a smartphone AR application. This innovative tool integrates with the Dyson Gen5 sensing stick vacuum cleaner. Exclusive to iPhone 12 Pro and above, it leverages the device’s built-in LiDAR scanner for real-time floor mapping, offering a glimpse into AR’s practical integration. (The Daily Posting)
16. The smart waste sensor technology market will grow at a CAGR of 22.8 percent until 2028
The global deployment of smart waste sensor technology, as reported by Berg Insight, reached 1.25 million collection points in 2023, projected to grow to 3.50 million by 2028. (IoT Business News)
